Young Mother Killed Her Newborn After Giving Birth At Home In Philadelphia: DA

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PHILADELPHIA — A minor is facing homicide charges after authorities say she killed her baby shortly after giving birth at home Saturday in Philadelphia's Northern Liberties neighborhood.

The charges arose after police were dispatched to an apartment where an infant girl was unresponsive. Minutes later, medics pronounced the baby dead.

• Related: Infant Found Dead At Philadelphia Apartment; Investigation Underway: Police

Investigators found that the mother — a juvenile — killed her newborn shortly after giving birth, according to Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner.

"What is clear now is that this heartbreaking incident constitutes criminal homicide and other criminal charges," Krasner said. "More clarity is needed on this teenage girl’s mental state both before and shortly after childbirth, when the crimes occurred."

The minor was charged with felony voluntary manslaughter and misdemeanor counts of possessing an instrument of crime, recklessly endangering another person, and tampering with physical evidence.

The charges are subject to change as the active investigation continues. District Attorney's Office investigators will receive additional reports from experts and others to clarify crucial issues, Krasner said.

Preliminary investigation suggested the infant may have died from puncture wounds, police said. But the official cause of death has not been determined.

The DA's C.A.R.E.S. Unit (Crisis Assistance Response Engagement Services) has been in touch with family, co-survivors and impacted community members, Krasner said.

"In addition, any potential medical and/or psychiatric needs of juvenile defendants must be addressed, as always, per the law," Krasner said. "The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office remains committed to individual justice, including individual justice for women and girls of every age."